21 die in Amritsar spurious liquor (“hooch”) tragedy; supplier among 10 arrested and district police officers suspended

Spurious Liquor Claims 21 Lives in Amritsar: Supplier Among 10 Arrested, Police Officers Suspended

Amritsar, India – A tragic incident involving the consumption of spurious liquor has resulted in the deaths of 21 people in Amritsar, Punjab. Authorities have arrested 10 individuals linked to the distribution of the illicit brew, including the alleged supplier, who is believed to be the kingpin of the operation.

The administration has taken swift action in response to the tragedy. Among the arrests, a key suspect has been apprehended, thought to be responsible for orchestrating the production and distribution of the deadly alcohol. Additionally, accountability measures have been implemented within the local policing ranks. The Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) and the Station House Officer (SHO) of the Majitha district have been suspended, and a total of four officers are facing repercussions for their roles in failing to prevent the illicit activities.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has described the incident as nothing short of “murder,” highlighting the severity and criminality of the situation. The event has reignited concerns about the consumption and regulation of illicit liquor in the region, a persistent issue that poses significant public health risks.

The state is mourning the loss of life from this preventable disaster, with affected families demanding stricter enforcement of laws against the production and sale of spurious liquor. Local leaders and law enforcement agencies are under increased pressure to ensure that such incidents are proactively curtailed through comprehensive oversight and engagement.

Public safety campaigns and policy reforms are anticipated as Punjab’s government takes steps to address the root causes of the illegal alcohol market. The administration’s immediate focus remains on providing support to the victims’ families and conducting a thorough investigation to bring all responsible parties to justice.

This unfortunate incident in Amritsar underscores the ongoing challenges faced by regional authorities in curbing the circulation of harmful substances and preventing similar tragedies in the future.